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Our approach A commitment to a water positive future The context The scientific consensus is clear: water security and our capacity to safeguard sustainable access to quality freshwater resources is increasingly at risk. There is a global increase in water demand that follows population growth, economic development, and changing consumption patterns. Research by WRI projects that by 2030, there will be a 56 percent defici t in water supply relative to demand if no actions are taken to alleviate this. At present, about 25 percent of the global population lives in countries that suffer from water stress, and one in ten people lack access to safe drinking water. W e are committed to b ecoming a water positive company by 2030. We will do this by continuing our water stewardship work across our operations, building on the steps taken to reduce the water consumption in our datacenters and campuses over the past decade. In addition to reductions, we aim to become water positive through expanding access to clean water and replenishment projects. Ou r commitment: water positive by 2030 Replenishing more water than we use by 2030 We will reduce the water intensity of our direct operations and replenish in water-stressed regions where we work. Reducing water use in datacenter operations We will reduce water waste in our datacenter operations by 95 pe rcent by 2024. Increasing access to water We will provide more than 1.5 million people with access to clean water and sanitation services by 2030. Digitizing water data We will use our technology to generate actionable insights, increase awareness of water issues, and optimize water replenishment. Empowering our customers and partners We will continue to develop solutions to help customers and partners understand water-related risks. Investing in the future of water We will work with companies around the world to drive innovation and adoption of water technologies. Influencing policy We will use our voice at the local, national, and global levels to increase water access and availability, improve quality, and ensure the integration of water into climate strategies. Driving collective action We will partner with others to drive collective action to increase access and reduce water stress. 45

Environmental Sustainability Report | Microsoft - Page 45 Environmental Sustainability Report | Microsoft Page 44 Page 46

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